Forums Forums Wirral History : Chasing the Past History Information Request Bessborough Rd, Birkenhead The Firs, circa 1910-20

Not sure where to start with this inquiry. Seeking a photo of old Gilmour Home on Bessborough Rd, located there in 1910s and 1920s. Now has been replaced with Gilmour Mount and newer homes. Old Census states George Gilmour lived at 'The Firs', Bessborough Rd, Birkenhead. This is right near Christ Church, so an old photo of the Church, might include the house in the background.

Any ideas where to procure a scan of photo?

Many thanks.

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The images below are maps, if you are unable to view.

The 1913 map show The Firs and the 1938 shows it has been replaced with Gilmour Mount. Captain George Gilmour (Retired) died in 1925, his given address was The Firs. The 1938 directory records Gilmour Mount. It seems The Firs was demolished between those dates.

Thank you for the reply. Wasn't able to view the maps, but at least we know that it was standing in 1913. That is great, sure hope we can get a photo from someone!

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

Birkenhead Library have a photo index,
https://www.wirral.gov.uk/sites/def...0archives/Photo%20index%20Dec%202016.pdf

I haven't looked through the complete list, however, page 295, BWD 38,29,40,41 covers Bessborough Rd.

Fire off an Email to the library and see if they help and tell you what they are.

I think there's a good chance, BWD39, 16/18 Bessborough Rd is The Firs.

The 1916 Directory has, The Firs followed by number 22, etc.

Thank you Bertieone.

Will be glad to contact the library, but have a question. In your reply it has 'Attachments: Viewing Permissions May Apply' then it has bess rd. JPG.
Is there actually a photo attached? Doubt that I can see them without paying the fee, which isn't a problem, IF there is something to see! As I'm in California, won't be using this that much, but don't mind the user fee if it is worthwhile. What I really need is a scan of a print, so do you think that the library does that?
Thanks tons for your help, a bit new at working in the UK.
Sandie

Sandie,

Bess Rd is an image of the 1916 Street Directory.

The library may have a small charge for a copy of the photograph, best find out first what photo it is exactly.

Very Good! We were able to access the 1913 map online, and definitely saw 'The Firs', so that was confirming. Have contacted the library and will see what they reply.

Can't tell you how much we appreciate your help....!

Till next time...

MT
Sandie